Middlesbrough are ready to turn to Sunderland wing-back Julio Arca as Gareth Southgate steps up his search for reinforcements.

It is understood talks are under way with the 25-year-old Argentinian, who was
withdrawn from the Black Cats' squad for last night's friendly trip to
Rotherham, ostensibly with a minor hamstring problem.

Frenchman Franck Queudrue has been linked with Fulham for some time - the
interest dates back to January - and Southgate does not particularly want to
lose the Frenchman.

However, Sunderland's relegation has opened up a window of opportunity and
Boro have made their interest known in a man who would be a tailor-made
replacement.

With the managerless Wearsiders a little more than a fortnight away from their
opening Championship fixture, incoming chairman Niall Quinn will be
looking for a swift decision.

Arca's recruitment would see him renew a partnership with England winger
Stewart Downing.

The pair played together briefly during Downing's loan spell at Sunderland
three seasons ago.

Quinn has held talks with the South American, who has a year remaining on his
current contract, in a bid to persuade him that his future lies with the club he
joined in a £3.5million move from Argentinos Juniors in 2000.

However, having demonstrated his loyalty by staying on after two previous
relegations, there is a feeling that he could leave in the search for top-flight
football.

Arca could have a series of options - Spanish side Espanyol have been tracking
him, but their valuation of around £550,000 is way below that of Sunderland.

But Boro's swift action has put them in the driving seat.

Southgate is working hard behind the scenes to strengthen his squad after
seeing his big-money move for Chelsea defender Robert Huth collapse.

That could yet be resurrected, but while his focus remains central defenders
and a midfielder, the chance to capture Arca, who was an instant hit on his
arrival in the Premiership, could be too good an opportunity to pass up.

By contrast, Sunderland have found themselves somewhat hamstrung by events off
the pitch with Quinn's takeover bid ongoing and a new manager - the word on
Wearside today was that departed Aston Villa boss David O'Leary is unlikely to
be the man - still to be appointed.

The Irishman signalled his intention to leave player decisions on the squad to
the manager, but with no-one yet in post he is having to sanction prospective
deals himself.

Kenny Cunningham signed a one-year deal yesterday, while 20-year-old
midfielder Grant Leadbitter put pen to paper on a two-year contract.

In addition, keeper Kelvin Davis could yet complete a move to Southampton
after also being withdrawn from the squad for last night's game.